Meet JORDANA TURKEL

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful JORDANA TURKEL a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

JORDANA, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?

Living with dyslexia has given me a deep well of resilience. From an early age, I had to work harder than most to achieve what others seemed to grasp with ease. Reading, writing, and organizing information didn’t come naturally to me, so I learned to push through frustration, self-doubt, and setbacks. That persistence shaped my grit.

Because traditional learning methods didn’t always work for me, I became resourceful. I found creative ways to process information through visuals, hands-on experiences, and asking questions that helped me connect the dots. Dyslexia forced me to adapt constantly, and that adaptability has become one of my greatest strengths.

There were moments when I felt misunderstood or underestimated, but those experiences taught me how to bounce back. I became more aware of my own emotions and more empathetic toward others who struggle in their own ways.

Most importantly, I learned that intelligence isn’t one-size-fits-all. My mind works differently, and that difference has allowed me to approach challenges with a unique perspective. Dyslexia didn’t hold me back it helped shape who I am. It taught me to be resilient, and that resilience continues to guide me through every challenge I face.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

As a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator, I’ve built my career on the belief that food should empower, not restrict. At Park Avenue Endocrinology, I work closely with patients to create realistic, personalized plans that support long-term health and well-being. Whether someone is managing diabetes, navigating weight loss, or seeking clarity on nutrition in the context of conditions like thyroid disorders or PCOS, my goal is to meet them where they are with empathy, evidence-based care, and a practical, food-first approach.

My background in clinical nutrition spans pediatrics, oncology, cardiology, GI disorders, and more. I’m also deeply involved in diabetes self-management, helping patients interpret insulin pump and CGM data, adjust dosing, and understand how food, movement, and medications interact. But at the heart of my work is the human connection listening carefully, understanding goals, and supporting behavior change that’s sustainable.

I’ve always been drawn to the complexity of nutrition and the individuality of each person’s journey. I’m passionate about helping patients become more mindful eaters, guiding them to recognize hunger cues, reduce shame around food, and feel confident in the choices they make. Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all, and I’m committed to creating a safe, supportive space where meaningful change can happen.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back on my journey as a dietitian, three core strengths have shaped not only how I practice, but also how I connect with my patients.

First and foremost, empathy has been my most valuable tool. I’ve learned that nutrition is never just about food it’s about people’s experiences, beliefs, and emotions. By listening deeply and without judgment, I create a space where my patients feel seen and supported. Building trust through empathy allows for real, lasting change to begin.

Second, my foundation in clinical knowledge especially in areas like diabetes, thyroid disorders, PCOS, and GI health has been essential. But what’s made the biggest difference is my commitment to staying current and curious. I actively seek out the latest evidence and tools, whether it’s interpreting CGM data, guiding GLP-1 medication use, or translating complex science into real-world strategies that patients can understand and use confidently.

Finally, my focus on behavior change counseling has transformed the way I work with clients. I’ve learned that sustainable progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about helping people shift their mindset, set meaningful goals, and take small, consistent steps forward. Using techniques like motivational interviewing, I support patients in building healthier relationships with food and with themselves.

These three pillars empathy, clinical depth, and a behavioral approach have not only grounded my practice but have helped me become the kind of dietitian who empowers people to create lasting, meaningful change

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was believe in me especially when I didn’t yet believe in myself. Growing up with dyslexia, I faced a lot of academic challenges and moments of self-doubt. But my parents never saw my learning differences as a limitation. Instead, they focused on my strengths, encouraged my creativity, and constantly reminded me that how I learn doesn’t define what I can achieve.

They advocated for me, supported me through every struggle, and taught me how to advocate for myself. That unwavering support gave me the confidence to push through obstacles and shaped the resilience I carry with me today. Their belief in me laid the foundation for the way I show up for others in my career, in my relationships, and in the way I approach life.